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At 11.30pm, the gathered crowds will be asked to hold up their mobile phones to create a sea of lights to pay tribute to those who died and show solidarity with their families.

It will be followed by a soundtrack of Manchester music - with a few surprises too.

A countdown will herald midnight ahead of a dazzling 12 minute-long fireworks display from the roof of Manchester town hall.

(Image: Manchester Evening News)

City centre spokesman councillor Pat Karney said: “As it’s New Year’s Eve, people will be in a jolly mood, but people will have a moment to reflect on the Arena families and the difficulties they will face.

From day one, Manchester has wanted to show the families they are thinking about them and the terrible time they are going through.

“New Year’s Eve is a time of emotional reflection for all of us, but doubly so for the families.”

When are the trams running?

Road closures

As a reminder, the main routes around Albert Square are shut to traffic tonight (including Princess Road, John Dalton Street and Cross Street), and will reopen at 1am.

(Image: Google)

22:05

A few people already there

22:00KEY EVENT

Poetry and solidarity messages

During the event, big screens will carry messages and poetry, including Tony Walsh’s ‘This is the Place’.

(Image: Eddie Garvey)

21:57

No booze rule

The Albert Square celebrations are a strictly booze free affair this year, to help promote a family-friendly atmosphere.

National Police Air Service Barton captures New Year's Eve 2016 in Manchester (Image: @NPAS_Barton)

Bag searches are also in operation at entry points and people have been advised to leave their bags at home to reduce any queues.

21:52

As for the weather...

...the news is not great. But we know it’s unlikely to put Mancs off. The Met Office is predicting showers across the region this evening and into the early hours of January 1. Read more here. And take a brolly.

21:49

And a couple of visitors who've come a long way

21:49

Crowds already arriving

21:46KEY EVENT

Defiant celebrations

Tonight’s celebrations will reflect the tragedy that struck Manchester earlier this year when 22 people were killed at the Manchester Arena. In what is likely to be an emotional celebration people are set to honour those killed with a special programme of events.

21:43KEY EVENT

Manchester gets ready to celebrate New Year

Hello, and welcome to our live blog where we will be bringing you updates throughout the evening as Manchester prepares to say farewell to 2017 and usher in 2018.